Dublin Looks to Cut Traffic By Creating Car-Free Zones

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Erika Owen

June 23, 2015

Dublin has proposed a plan that would transform some of its most traffic-prone streets into car-free zones for pedestrians, cyclists, buses, and a new tram system. This change is planned to coincide with the construction of a new $420-million tram system, with another $170 million being used to pedestrianize the congested streets.

The city has seen major changes in the past decade—part in the fact that more millenials are calling Ireland's capital home—and will continue to for the next ten years with a projected population growth of 20 percent and a whopping 42,000 morning commute journeys anticipated by 2023. That being said, the city has seen car use drop 17 percent over the past ten years thanks to these younger, bike-friendly city dwellers.

The plan hasn't received public approval just yet—meaning there's no specific day Dubliners can look forward to strolling the proposed streets sans cars—but the city is confident in the opportunity. Ciarán Cuffe, chair of the city council's transport committee, has some inspiring words on the switch:

Dublin won't become car-free tomorrow, but as we improve our light rail network there are fantastic opportunities to create car-free areas where you can breathe, think, and hear yourself speak. Dubliners are very receptive to this. The true test of a civilized city is whether you can let go your child's hand and allow them to explore the city by themselves. That is our ultimate goal.

For more information on specific streets this plan looks to transform, head over to the Dublin City website.

Erika Owen is the Audience Engagement Editor at Travel + Leisure. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @erikaraeowen.